InterContinental Hotels Group's Anhut

If there is one saving grace in the current lodging market downturn it’s that new supply is proceeding at a measured pace, thereby giving hoteliers hope that when the economy eventually turns, they will not be competing with a swell of new product. Yet the major franchise companies depend on new development to grow their brand distribution. To get an understanding of how franchise companies can expand even in this parched capital environment, GlobeSt.com spoke to James F. Anhut, senior vice president and chief development officer, the Americas, for InterContinental Hotels Group in Atlanta, at the recent New York University International Hospitality Industry Investment Conference at the Waldorf-Astoria in New York City.

Anhut oversees development for IHG’s seven brands in North America, which includes the upscale InterContinental Hotels & Resorts and Crowne Plaza flags, as well as Hotel Indigo, a boutique offering. In the extended-stay segment, IHG franchises the high end Staybridge Suites and the mid-scale Candlewood Suites. And of course, the iconic Holiday Inn and Holiday Inn Express chains are within its franchise family. All told, there are 4,222 hotels carrying the company’s flags across the globe. Anhut talked about IHG’s pipeline for new projects and how it’s holding up in today’s climate.

GlobeSt.com: Can you give us an update on InterContinental Hotels’ development activities?